Team preparing for a flat clearance job, loading items into a van

Health & Safety Policy — Flat Clearance Forest Gate

Flat Clearance Forest Gate is committed to delivering a safe, professional flat clearance and rubbish removal service while protecting the health of our team, customers and the public. This policy sets out the principles and arrangements that support safe working practices across our flat clearance service area. It applies to all employees, contractors and anyone engaged on our projects, whether undertaking house clearance, mattress removal, bulky rubbish collection or full flat clearance operations.

Scope and Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure a consistent approach to risk control in all flat clearance and rubbish removal activities in our service area. We aim to reduce accidents, prevent occupational ill health and ensure safe handling and disposal of waste. The policy covers site assessments, manual handling, use of tools and equipment, vehicle operations, and the segregation and lawful disposal of waste materials.

Operative performing a risk assessment inside a flat prior to rubbish removal

Responsibilities and Accountability

Senior management retains overall responsibility for health and safety and will demonstrate leadership by providing adequate resources. Supervisors and operatives are responsible for following safe systems of work, reporting hazards and cooperating in risk control measures. All staff are expected to take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others while working for our flat clearance company, and to participate in training and toolbox talks as required.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems

Risk assessments are carried out for each job to identify specific hazards associated with rubbish collection and flat clearance tasks. Controls are implemented using the hierarchy of risk control: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment. Key controls include:

Pre-job site assessment to identify access issues and potential hazards;
Use of mechanical aids and team lifting to reduce manual handling risk;
Segregation of waste to prevent cross-contamination of recyclable and hazardous materials;
Clear exclusion zones around removal activities to protect the public.

Workers wearing PPE and sorting recyclable materials during a clearance

Training, Competence and Personal Protective Equipment

Staff receive induction and ongoing training relevant to their roles in flat clearance and rubbish removal. Training covers manual handling techniques, safe use of equipment such as sack trucks and lifting straps, and identification of hazardous materials. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and must be worn where required — gloves, hi-vis clothing, sturdy footwear and eye protection. All employees are encouraged to raise concerns and seek clarification on safe methods of work.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All incidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences must be reported promptly. We operate a clear reporting system that ensures events are recorded, investigated and learnings are shared to prevent recurrence. Emergency procedures are established for injuries, fire, spillage of hazardous substances and vehicle incidents. First aid arrangements and access to medical assistance are maintained for all operational sites.

Servicing and inspection of clearance vehicle and equipment before a job

Equipment, Vehicles and Contractor Management

Equipment and vehicles used by the flat clearance team are subject to regular maintenance and inspections. Drivers must follow safe loading, securement and route planning practices to protect both operatives and the public. Where contractors are engaged, we ensure they meet our safety standards through pre-qualification and documented arrangements. Only competent, insured contractors are permitted to undertake specialist waste handling or disposal work on our behalf.

Final check and secure loading of waste prior to lawful disposal

Environmental Controls and Waste Compliance

Waste is managed responsibly to minimise environmental impact. We promote recycling and reuse wherever possible and ensure hazardous items are handled by licensed carriers. Disposal is carried out in accordance with relevant waste management requirements and our operational procedures — ensuring the integrity of the service area and reducing risks associated with contaminated or hazardous materials.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

The Health & Safety policy is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in legislation, industry guidance and operational experience. Performance is monitored through audits, inspections and incident analysis. We set measurable objectives for safety performance and encourage feedback from staff to drive continuous improvement in our flat clearance operations.

Employee Engagement and Communication We promote open communication and active involvement of staff in health and safety matters. Regular briefings, toolbox talks and documented procedures support consistent implementation of safe work practices. Employees are required to acknowledge this policy and their responsibilities; supervisors will support individuals to meet competency requirements and to adopt safe behaviours.

Policy Commitment

Flat Clearance Forest Gate is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for all rubbish removal and flat clearance activities in our service area. This policy provides the framework for safe operations, risk reduction and compliance with applicable standards. The management team will ensure that resources are available to implement and maintain the health and safety arrangements detailed here and will review the policy at regular intervals to ensure effectiveness.